Go, Find, Tell & Invite

On Saturday I attended a United Methodist training event for the Aurora and Elgin districts. Deacon Sherry Scates presented one of the workshops.

We started by reading scripture: John 1:43-46 (Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael) and John 4:1-30 (Jesus and the Woman of Samaria). In both texts Jesus goes someplace, finds people who are in need, tells them good news, and invites them to follow him.

Go. Find. Tell. Invite. In that order.

Deacon Scates pointed out that many of us who attend church regularly are very good at waiting near the front door to welcome people and invite them in. Then, we tell them about our church.

In other words, we start with Step Four, go back to Step Three, and omit Steps One and Two altogether.

Then she asked the group what would happen if we followed Jesus’ example by starting with Step One, then took Steps Two, Three and Four?

Step One: we would go out of the building.

Step Two: we would search until we find people in need. Where are they? The Library? Community Connection Center? Further away? And, who are they?

Step Three: we would tell these people good news. What would be good news from their point of view? What do they need? Do we speak the same language?

Step Four: we would invite our new friends to visit our church. We might plan an event, expand a ministry or start something new that specifically addresses their needs.

I came to realize that, as a church staff person, most of my ministry takes place inside. Praying, planning, facilitating, listening, teaching, coordinating, encouraging and equipping you in your ministry keep my weeks very full.

How about you? Do you feel called to go and find the way Jesus did? If this is a way of being in ministry that you would like to explore, I encourage you to come talk with me.

Likewise, if there are other ways of being in ministry that interest you, whether or not we have done it before, I would like to hear your ideas.

Or, if you just want to talk, I hope you will give me a call or stop by the church office.

I’m a good listener. During the week I am usually here Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. I look forward to hearing what’s on your mind and where God is calling you next.